Horse riding weekends are an excellent way to introduce yourself, friends and family to horse riding holidays. For the beginner rider, weekends and short breaks offer a taster of this type of holiday, without being too much of a commitment or allowing too much time to get saddle sore! For more experienced riders, a weekend away in the saddle can be the perfect trip between longer holidays or an opportunity to refresh your riding ability before tackling a more adventurous horseback experience.
Our weekends and short breaks range from two days (one night) riding along the French coast of Calais, to a relaxing long weekend in the beauty of Chianti, Italy, or exciting mountain trails in the Brecon Beacons in Wales. A variety of our based riding destinations, across Europe or even further, offer stays of any length and this flexibility allows for midweek holidays or holidays which are customised in both duration and arrival time. This flexible approach to riding holidays means that time in the saddle can become part of a larger adventure, such as an American holiday where you can spend a few days at a traditional working cattle ranch before going on to do something else. Many clients like to start by booking a horse riding weekend with Far and Ride before moving on to another of our trips, such as an exhilarating trail ride or perhaps a taste of luxury. Having booked a weekend with Far and Ride first, they are then entitled to our loyalty discount on their next booking.
There is a wide variety of choice when it comes to short breaks so please do contact us if you'd like any advice or if you're looking to incorporate one of our riding holidays into a longer trip.
A Taste of Armagnac (Unguided), France
These riding holidays are set in the beautiful French area of Armagnac. Your host, Evelien, is a trained horse riding guide who speaks fluent Dutch, French and excellent English. Her stables of well-trained horses offer the ideal means by which to explore the stunning countryside - you are sure to love this peaceful setting.
Alentejo Coastal Trails, Portugal
Ride into the hills above Grandola, passing cork trees which have grown for centuries as well as eucalyptus and pine forests. In the opposite direction lie the beaches, sand dunes and lagoons of the coast. This riding holiday combines both landscapes, as you spend the first half of the week riding in the hills, and the second half riding along the coast. There are plenty of opportunities for long loping canters or occasional gallops as well as relaxing and watching the landscape unfold around you.
Algarve Coast and Tuition, Portugal
This equestrian centre, one of the Algarves most well-known and prestigious, is situated in an upmarket holiday area. It is an ideal location for enjoyable riding, with an abundance of sandy tracks, open landscape full of wildflowers and herbs as well as being close to golden beaches and a nature reserve. The prefect destination for single travellers, as there is no additional supplement for single room use, as well as families, as it offers the unique chance to meet and interact with other children.
The climate means riding is possible throughout the year as, even in winter, the sun is virtually always shining. Warm evenings provide the opportunity for enjoying wonderful sunsets from horseback and the unique experience of riding under a full moon.
Almeria, Spain
This riding base near to Almeria can offer riding along the coast and beach. In this wonderful countryside we can offer you some first class horseriding. Programmes here can be tailor made so do not hesitate to ask if you would like something a little bit different to those listed here. Your host, Manolo is a skilled horseman whilst remaining a kind, caring and attentive host. His love of people, horses and nature is evident in his holidays and he describes horses as "our companions through life".
Andalucia Trails, Spain
This unique trekking centre centre, based in the heart of Andalucia, offers 2-8 day treks and trail rides for families, friends and singles, and from the beginner to the experienced rider.
From this base you will explore a beautiful part of Spain, riding free from traffic and walkers, following secret trails in the wonderful countryside. Your hosts' knowledge of the local terrain means that they know all the best trails to suit all abilities or rider. You will ride in remote locations.
Ant's Nest and Ant's Hill, South Africa
These two unique bush homes, Ant's Nest and Ant's Hill, are located on their own private game reserve in the beautiful and diverse Waterberg region of South Africa. They offer some of the most exciting game viewing and horseback riding in Africa and situated at an altitude of 4500 feet above sea level, this wonderful region offers a temperate climate and can be visited all year round. Due to the varying topography and ecology across the reserve, the bush is teeming with an incredible variety of game species from rhino and buffalo to leggy giraffe, rare sable antelope, herds of eland, zebra, wildebeest, big spiral horned kudu to the fleet footed oryx just to mention but a few. There are 300 recorded bird species in the area to add to the exquisite variety of all forms of wildlife that the reserves support.
Arizona Hacienda Ranch, USA
The 300 year old ranch is one of the last great haciendas in America. It was established as a guest ranch in 1924, and its history has been lovingly preserved in the beautiful buildings that rest comfortably in the rolling pastures of the high Sonoran Desert.
The ranch boasts more than 320 day of sunshine a year and is just one hour from Tucson, ideally situated at the base of the sacred Baboquivari mountains and bordering the Tohono O'odham Indian Nation. The ranch offers a range of activities, including beautiful trail rides for all abilities, cattle work, sport shooting or simply relaxing.
Arizona Tombstone, USA
Take a step back in history and ride trails made famous by Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday and the outlaw Curly Bill Brocius. Stay in a replica 1880's main street with individually styled rooms representing the store fronts of Tombstone. There are slow walking rides and faster loping rides on offer through the desert landscapes in the heart of Cochise County.
Armagnac Chateau, France
These riding holidays are set in the beautiful French area of Armagnac. Your host, Evelien, is a trained horse riding guide who speaks fluent Dutch, French and excellent English. Her stables of well-trained horses offer the ideal means by which to explore the stunning countryside. You are based at this stunning Chateau.
Azores - Faial Island Trails, Azores
This welcoming quinta is based on the island of Faial in the Azores and offers a choice of horseback trails as well as a programme for beginners. Guests are accommodated in comfortable guesthouses each night, sampling local Azorean cuisine and riding a beautiful Lusitano or crossbreed around the island.
Borana, Kenya
Borana Lodge is a family-run and owned destination which plays a special part in the conservation of Kenyan wildlife. Borana Conservancy lies at the foot of Mt Kenya and is a haven for wildlife, considered to be Kenyas newest and most successful rhino sanctuary - the private conservancy covers 32,000 acres and is home to more than 25 Black Rhino, a population which has grown since the species was introduced here in 2013. The conservancy is dedicated to the sustainable conservation of land and wildlife.
Brecon Beacons and Beyond, Wales
World class trail riding over the Brecon Beacons and beyond. These riding holidays are set in some of the most beautiful and undiscovered parts of Wales and fit, fine and sure-footed Welsh Cobs are the perfect mounts. Run by the Turner family with over 40 years experience, this is trail riding not to be forgotten.
Catalonia, Spain
Ride out through the beautiful Catalonia countryside or along the Mediterranean coast - this destination offers a selection of fantastic riding holiday programmes. The area is full of spectacular towns and villages, surprisingly untouched by the hands of time, and the architecture still reflects the glory of days gone by. Catalonia is a wild and unspoilt wilderness just waiting to be discovered on horseback.
Coastal Beaches and Vineyards, Uruguay
These horseback rides explore the area around Punta del Este on the eastern coast of Uruguay - the vibrant and fashionable La Barra, and the tranquil and relaxed Jose Ignacio. The beaches themselves invite you to canter, whilst tranquil lagoons offer opportunities to swim the horses and cool off hot riders. Inland there are vineyards aplenty and you can ride through the vines and olive groves. Large, private Estancia have trails running across them which means you can ride for miles without hardly seeing a soul.
Coffee Highlands, Brazil
Riding in the coffee highlands takes you through the coffee-growing regions northeast of Sao Paulo, visiting some of the great historical plantation homes and passing through surprisingly well-preserved natural landscapes. This diversified terrain takes you from plains to mountains, up and down escarpments and onto plateaus punctuated with springs and waterfalls. Since the mid 19th century some of the finest coffee produced in Brazil has come from this region which boasts a perfect combination of altitude (800-1,300 metres) and climate (dry winters and wet summers) as well as fertile, well-drained soil.
Costa de la Luz, Spain
Enjoy the experience of combining an exciting horse riding adventure with relaxation and socialisation, on the beautiful Spanish Coast. Your multi-talented owners, hosts and guides Steve and Caroline will do their very best to ensure you have a holiday to remember. The riding centre borders the Barbate nature reserve and offers direct access to fantastic off-road riding through unspoilt forests, as well as unforgettable days on the beach. Long wide firebreaks and twisty forest tracks ensure the park could not have been better designed for horse riding. Each day there are plenty of opportunities for long controlled canters, as well as faster gallops along the soft sandy tracks. Between canters the horses relax and walk at a leisurely pace, enabling you to take in the peaceful tranquillity of the forest.
Doņana Dressage & Trails, Spain
In this glorious setting Jose Manuel has realised his dreams and is now offering some wonderful programmes at his new equestrian centre which is located on the outskirts of El Rocio. This is a town like no other and perfectly suited to horse riders and not cars! The town is close to the coast and only an hour from Seville. The roads here are sand and you will see horses and riders making the most of the sandy open roads. Everywhere here has been made easy for the horse riders including bars with tables to put your glass when you are sitting on your horse enjoying your drink. There are horses everywhere!
Essaouira, Morocco
Discover the hills, valleys and coastal villages around the fishing port of Essaouira on horseback. This camping trail allows you to ride through argan forests, sand dunes and along the glorious beaches on kind but tough Berber stallions.
Extremadura Trails, Spain
Extremadura is a region in western Spain which is a paradise for horse riders. Boasting a fabulous climate in autumn, winter and spring, with hot summers, it has excellent preserved natural reserves and historical sites, many of which are UNESCO protected. Characterised by "dehesa" - wooded pasture - it is one of the most prized destinations in Europe for bird-watching enthusiasts and nature lovers the world over. Crossing this land are wide grassy pathways or Canadas Reales, which are ancient routes used by cattle herders for moving their stock between summer and winter pastures. These routes offer safe and enjoyable trots and canters for riders on the beautifully cared for horses of your host and guide.
Finnhorse Adventures, Finland
Trail riding adventures on rare Finnhorses, the native horse of Finland. These calm, sturdy little horses have played an important part in their country's history and their numbers are now sadly in decline. Your hostess' dream was to breed them and use them for trail riding... and here they are!
Flowerhill Equestrian, Ireland
Flowerhill is a haven for riders who love to jump or who would like to improve their jumping skills - located on 250 acres of glorious countryside and with a range of fences, you can jump to your heart's content! Your host, Oliver, is a former field master and current Huntsman who will advise you as you tackle the obstacles around you. He has more than 45 working horses and will match you to a suitable steed, whatever your jumping experience.
Galiny Palace, Poland
This welcoming country estate features a stud farm offering riding lessons, hacking and carriage driving. There is a host of non-riding activities also available such as fishing, cycling, hiking and swimming, plus the estate features various sports courts. You can choose whether to stay in the Palace or in the Grange!
Georgia Ranch, USA
A beautiful year-round guest ranch and horse farm conveniently nestled in Central Georgia's Historic Heartland. With more than 150 quality Paint and Quarter Horses, the ranch is best known for its exceptional horse riding programme, unguided riding opportunities and peaceful setting. The ranch offers an all-inclusive riding package during which you can experience the delightful accommodation, exceptional cuisine and southern hospitality.
Gobi and Grasslands Ride, Mongolia
Experience the stark desert landscape of the Bayan Gobi and the lush grassland steppes of the Orkhon Valley on this trail which combines riding in both these dramatic locations. If you cannot choose between riding in the desert or the valley then this trail is the perfect combination of both! Discover the hospitality of nomadic hersdmen and camp in wilderness locations far from the tourist crowd.
Greek Island Escape, Greece
Riding out of a small, authentic, family run riding stables in the heart of the island town of Molyvos, on the Northern coast of the Island of Lesvos. You will be offered the unique opportunity to explore the surroundings of Molyvos, on horseback. You will ride on wide sandy beaches and discover breathtaking views, from the top of steep, rocky mountains. This island has so much to offer you and it is just waiting to be discovered.
Horizon Horseback Adventures and Safaris, South Africa
Horizon Horseback offers riding safaris in the Waterberg area of northern South Africa. Just three hours north of Johannesburg, this destination has a choice for everyone from honeymoon couples to adventurous families, single riders to groups of friends (non-riders also welcome). Guests can opt for a mobile safari or an adventure based out of the historic family property, set in a private game reserve alongside a beautiful lake with hippo and surrounding plains game. The choices of riding are almost endless and include outrides through the game reserve, swimming with the horses in the lake, western games, jumping, cross country or even learning to play polocrosse.
Hualapai Ranch (Stagecoach Trails), USA
This is a comfortable ranch, set in tens of thousands of acres, which has a riding programme second to none. You are always offered a gentle slow walking ride or an exciting fast trotting/loping ride.
The novice rider can enjoy a slow scenic ride and the experienced rider is offered challenging mountain rides, and fast paced loping rides through sandy washes. Disabled riders are able to enjoy this wonderful ranch experience.
Icelandic Horse Round Up, Iceland
Imagine hundreds of free and spirited horses cantering down from their highland summer pastures to be reclaimed by their owners. Mares and their foals, young horses and geldings traverse the rough terrain, not yet quite willing to surrender their freedom before the onset of winter. The ancient tradition of rounding up horses is only kept alive in the North of Iceland.
Idaho Western Pleasure Ranch, USA
This 75 year old family ranch has been welcoming guests since 1991. The ranch breed their own horses and there are horses for complete beginners as well as responsive and athletic horses for experienced riders. Trail rides venture through open meadows, quiet forests and along slow moving creeks. Try your hand at cattle sorting, cattle drives or arena games - or take a lesson in the arena. The month of September is restricted to Adults only, whilst the months of July and August offer special Children's Packages. This ranch really does offer options for everyone.
Karst Plateau, Slovenia
These scenic riding programmes are an absolute dream for those who love nature and beautiful landscapes - the Karst region is incredibly green with varied terrain, hidden treasures and spectacular wildlife including deer, boar, bears, wolves and a range of birds. Your host, Borut, comes from a hunting background and is an expert tracker, able to tell you all about the different animals and their habits. His horses are well-trained and relaxed, ideal for riding with a long rein through this magical countryside. In addition to its natural wonders, such as some of the world's most famous caves, the area is also full of fascinating history with old castles to be discovered. Slovenia is a safe, welcoming, scenic country and as you ride between tall pines and old turrets you feel as if you are in a fairytale.
Lagoa do Peixe National Park, Brazil
Lagoa do Peixe national park is a tempting mix of salt marshes, lagoons, sand dunes and the ocean. A haven for migrating birds, this area is best explored on horseback and the majestic Lusitano horse is the perfect companion. Bird watchers and wildlife supporters will enjoy watching the migrating birds and whales from horseback, whilst the sandy tracks and beaches are also perfect terrain for canters for those riders with experience. Everyone can ride here though and there are horses for all abilities.
Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch, Croatia
Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch is an award-winning, authentic guest ranch situated inside the UNESCO Velebit Mountain Biosphere Reserve in Croatia. This friendly ranch and "restorative retreat" is small and privately owned, open all year to guests from around the world and with a focus on unique horsemanship alongside a high level of comfort and service. They offer a range of daily activities to suit all the family and also have a special riding programme available once a year, the 'Ultimate Cowboy Adventure', for those who want to explore this beautiful region from the saddle in more depth. The ranch is run with a focus on sustainable development and in accordance with their own concept known as CIDER: Community, Integrity, Development, Evolution and Responsibility.
Lot Valley, France
This destination is the ideal opportunity to enjoy some exciting riding in the beautiful Averyonese countryside, whilst also relaxing when out of the saddle. The charming surroundings offer both excellent riding terrain and an all round beautiful setting which different levels of rider can explore. The countryside here allows for trekking through enchanting French villages and unspoilt woodlands with an abundance of fascinating wildlife such as deer, wild boar, red squirrel, hares, buzzards and kites. There are rivers and gorges leading down to open valleys where riders can canter over the rolling landscapes.
Lusitano Dressage, Portugal
This small-scale riding stables is just 30-40 mins drive from Lisbon, situated in an area where you can "get lost in time" and feel the rhythm of a typical old Portuguese village surrounded by vineyards, gorgeous landscapes and mountain views. Joao and Susana welcome guests for tuition on their spectacular Lusitano horses. There is a 15x40m indoor arena and a huge outdoor arena alongside paddocks and stables for their 15 horses. The stables are within easy walking distance of the Campo Real Hotel where you will stay - you have the possibility to use their modern facilities including swimming pools and spa when not in the saddle.
Lusitano Trails, Portugal
Beautiful trail rides exploring the Ribatejo region of Portugal. The horses are native Lusitanos, famed for being noble, willing and handsome, and these rides are only suitable for small groups to ensure that everyone has a top class experience on a quality horse. The countryside and culture of this area is wonderful with everything from open meadows, forests and rivers to a day trip at the beach!
Magic of Istria, Croatia
Istria provides a wonderful setting for horse riding due to its charming landscapes, comfortable climate and the warm hospitality that guests receive. Your guides, Zeljko & Vanja, and their enthusiastic, skilled team have many years of experience in horse riding and trail guiding. Here you can sample traditional cuisine, meet local people and enjoy the company of a great horse and new friends! We have loved Croatia for many years and we have been ourselves so we know its great.
Menorca Rural Hotel, Menorca
Menorca was designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve in 1993 with the S'Albufera d'es Grau national park, a bird-filled wetland at its heart. Menorca can offer many unspoiled green areas to be discovered by visitors on horse back. Here you can ride along rural tracks like the Cami de Cavalls and enjoy the magnificent landscape and views offered by this island. You will be accompanied by professional horseman who will show you parts of the island only possible to reach by horse.
Monte Velho Equo Resort, Portugal
A Lusitano stud farm offering luxurious accommodation and wonderful riding opportunities in the Alentejo region of Portugal. Guests can enjoy top class dressage tuition or rides out into the countryside, enjoying the charming grounds of the farm, before relaxing by the pool or just enjoying the sunshine. Bikes and canoes are also available for those who like to explore!
Pays de la Loire, France
Ride on horseback through the stunning Loire Valley, stopping at chateaus for leisurely lunches and wine tastings. There are week-long trails as well as short breaks for those who have less time. Most trails move on each night, but there is a centre based option too.
Roop Niwas Kothi Hotel, India
This hotel is home to one of the biggest stud farms for Marwari horses in India. It has been in the family for decades and offers regular stationary rides, riding lessons and longer safaris (see our 'Tours of the Raj' ride page). The tranquility and peace of the lavish hotel grounds are a delight for guests who wish to experience nature, relaxation and some excellent horse riding on these beautiful Indian horses with their curly touching ears.
Sea & Pine Forest, Sardinia
A fantastic and diverse resort with something to offer everyone. Imagine riding in an immense pinewood, on the dunes that border the beach and the sea and looking up to admire the flight of rose flamingo. Horse riding can be tailored for your needs. There are lessons for beginners and more advanced tuition if required. You can enjoy gallops along the beach and explore the pine forests on horseback.
It is possible to book a three or four day trek when you leave your horse and return to the hotel each night.
Sierra de Gredos, Spain
Discover the beautiful Sierra de Gredos of central Spain, with it's numerous river valleys and medieval villages, whilst riding beautiful and well-loved Andalusian or cross-bred horses. Your guides have been running rides in this area for over 20 years and are very knowledgable about the area. Different trails head in various directions and there is even a centre based option for those who prefer to relax in one place.
Temples, Tombs and Beaches, Egypt
Your adventures will take you on a trip through Gezira village to the Nile shore. Pleasure in Luxor comes not only from riding beautiful horses, but also through the opportunity to see true Arabian village life and the splendid nature. There is a wealth of riding options from cantering along the Nile watching buffalo graze along its lush green banks, travelling through the villages on horseback, galloping along the banana and sugar cane fields or visiting the Temples on horseback.
The Painted Birds, Uruguay
"Uruguay" means "River of the Painted Birds" in the local Guarani language and this riding trail takes you through traditional estancias, a biosphere wetlands reserve and along the beaches of the Atlantic ocean. Discover the land of the gaucho and his versatile working horse - the Criollo. Marvel at the variety of landscapes that you pass through and try to spot dolphins and sea lions along the coastline.
Tours of the Raj, India
These breathtaking and luxurious Indian safaris combine the thrill of riding through the magnificent former Raj kingdoms with the experience of riding purebred Indian horses such as the Marwaris, with their beautiful curled ears, and the Sindhis. As you ride across this unspoilt terrain, you will interact with locals as you ride through untouched villages, enjoy a taste of the desert lifestyle, view the flora and fauna of Rajasthan and listen to the rhythms of folk musicians. This is the way to see real India, sharing the experience with likeminded people who have a love for horses, nature and the environment. Your experienced guides have taken special care to ensure that the routes are as varied and interesting as possible and that you find your selected horses to be well bred, appropriately schooled and a pleasure to ride.
Tuscany Castle, Italy
Located one and a half hours from Rome, this splendid 17th-century castle has been the property of the noble Caterini family for generations. The family has breathed new life into it by restoring the cottages and farmhouse once used by the farmers. Those keen on horse riding will be delighted with the certified equestrian centre as the quality of the horses, the trails and the English speaking staff will ensure that your stay here is memorable.
Vale de Ferreiros, Portugal
This is a small family owned equestrian centre with horses and instructors of the highest class. Having been a venue for national and international competition for the last few years, It has now opened its doors to riders from all over the world. Offering lessons in both dressage and showjumping (or a combination of both), with well-schooled horses and knowledgeable instructors, as we all as more relaxed trail rides for those who wish to enjoy the countryside and ride in the sun. The picturesque town of Golega is located just 45 minutes drive from the centre and is the site for the annual Lusitano horse fair - a true celebration of the breed Portugal has become so famous for.
Waterberg Big Five Safari, South Africa
Entabeni - "The Place of the Mountain" is a stunning reserve situated within the World Heritage Waterberg Biosphere. Within this spectacular landscape all of the Big Five reside, along with plentiful plains game too. Riding safaris take place on both the upper and lower escarpments so you get to experience not only the stunning ecosystems, but also search for a high number of animals. The usual riding safari itinerary includes staying in a lodge on the lower escarpment before moving to a fly camp in the bush for an authentic African adventure, finishing with another lodge.
Western Ranch (El Bronco), Hungary
This welcoming ranch is situated in the south of Hungary, approximately 80km from Budapest, and offers western riding tuition and trail rides. The ranch breed their own Quarter Horses, Appaloosas and local Hungarian breeds which are successful in the western shows and the instructors are experienced horsemen who look forward to sharing their unique knowledge with the guests. The ranch is situated in Kiskunsagi National Park where the sandy ground is ideal for long gallops and relaxing trail rides, whilst carriage driving tours and lessons are also a superb option.
White Stallion Ranch, USA
The ranch, adjacent to the Saguaro National Park, Arizona, is set in nearly five square miles of lush desert. Longhorn cattle come in for water every day but with the timeless aura of a working western cattle ranch, you also have the benefits and comforts associated with a top quality destination.
Whether horseback riding is new to you or you are an experienced rider, the varied riding programme will fit your needs. There are slow scenic rides through the Saguaro cactus, to brisk fast rides and exciting trail rides over the mountains. There is something for everyone here.